What happens when you take the mighty talents of Ronnie James Dio, Ritchie Blackmore, and Cozy, and put them together in the same band? You get one of, if not the greatest album of all time. After leaving Deep Purple in 1974, and forming Rainbow, Ritchie Blackmore was making his name a force to be reckoned with. One year later, Rainbow released their debut album, Ritchie Blackmore's Rainbow. After scoring a minor hit with "Man on the Silver Mountain,", Ritchie and Ronnie decided it was time to step up their game. In 1976, after bringing in Cozy Powell on drums, Tony Carey on keyboards, and Jimmy Bain on bass, Rainbow recorded their masterpiece.

I think this album is amazing. Stargazer has always been and will always be one of the best tracks ever written. It is the definition of "epic" and long may it continue to inspire many bands. RIP Dio, your voice will always be heard.

I wonder why I can't enjoy this one, even though I LOVE the debut and really like the Long Live R'nR :S

I agree to a certain degree with that sentiment, just finished my first ever listens of both the debut and Rising (sometimes the best Christmas presents are the ones you give to yourself ), and I definately prefer the debut. In truth, I only liked two thirds of this album (''Starstruck'' and ''Do You Close Your Eyes'' were a bit weak imo). Though ''Stargazers'' has already become one of my favourite Dio-related songs, absolutely amazing song.

Weekest Rainbow whit Dio, I dont know this album so mch, I have some dammadged CD, so I know it not so good how 1th and 3th album.... and Dio is Dio, but still this is week, no emotional song what can steel your breth